Bank

Hi Bmor,

Many non-residents, experiencing high bank fees, have moved to online banks.  So long as they have an EU IBAN (International Bank Account Number), you will be able to set up direct debits for your Spanish utility bills.  A very popular choice is Wise and I've also seen recommendations for N26.  Whichever you choose, it's worth checking how you withdraw cash, if needed, when you're in Spain and what charges will be applied at ATM machines.

Kind regards, 

Kim

Hi I just closed an account with Bankia due very high charges and now I am with Wise, really works well,no charges.....

N26, we're not Norwegians but have been with them for years and are very happy with the service. 

https://n26.com/en-es/bank-account

As mentioned N26 and BBVA offer fee free online accounts and the benefits as both are you get a spanish IBAN.All utility companies are required by law to accept any IBAN number, but you will find there are some that refuse any IBANs other than spanish ones.N26 are currently accepting account requests  so if you decide to go with them then best get in quick as they are currently limited as to how many new accounts they can accept a month and for the last few weeks they were advising there was a waiting list.N26 also uses wise for currency exchanges so you get excellent rates.

yes you are right it is, but it still happens.I have read quite a few threads on other forums where users have advised their utility company point blank refused to accept a non spanish IBAN.

It might never happen to the OP but given the 2 banks mentioned are free and supply spanish IBANs then they would seem to be the best bet.